Jamshedpur: Jharkhand is set to witness a prolonged spell of unstable weather, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting rain, thunderstorms, lightning and strong winds across the state between May 9 and May 15. Wind speeds during the period are expected to range between 40 and 50 kmph.
The weather department has issued a special alert for several central Jharkhand districts, including Ranchi, Bokaro, Hazaribagh, Ramgarh, Koderma, Giridih, Dhanbad and Khunti, where thunderstorm activity may become more intense on May 9.
Officials said intermittent rainfall and gusty winds are likely to continue in many parts of the state throughout the week. However, some north-western regions of Jharkhand may see relatively less impact on May 11, 14 and 15.
According to meteorologists, the current weather system is being influenced by an upper air cyclonic circulation over East Madhya Pradesh and adjoining areas. In addition, a trough extending from East Rajasthan to East Jharkhand via Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh is contributing to atmospheric instability, leading to favourable conditions for widespread thunderstorm activity.
Residents have been urged to remain cautious during adverse weather conditions. Authorities advised people to avoid open spaces and sheltering under trees during lightning strikes, and to keep track of official weather advisories as the situation may change quickly.